Choros took the reduce sentence of a third degree murder charge over first degree a week before his murder trial was expected to begin.

"There was a lot of emotion in this case," said District Attorney Kelly Callihan. 'The family actually wanted a lesser sentence than what was offered."

Choros will serve at least 20 years in jail for killing this mother.

"It was a very tragic incident," said Defense Attorney Kenneth Sottile. "There was never a question he shot his mother, he doesn't know why, it's a mystery."

Choros shot his mother Sharon, a school nurse, twice in the head and once in the neck. Police Chief Christopher Sweet testified Monday that the 24-year olds blood alcohol content was three times the legal driving limit on the day of the shooting.

"I had taken him to the hospital to get his BAC done before the shooting took place," said Sweet.

Attorneys for the former Saint Francis student said he was under the influence of alcohol, sleep deprived and going through withdraw from medication.

"He loved his mother," said Sottile. "This is all just a big mystery."

"I felt this plea gave the family what they wanted but still sent a strong message," said Callihan.